Church Anniversary
Download our 180th Anniversary Celebration Bruchure from our Online Library.
180th Anniversary Video
Celebrating 180 Years 1810-2022!
Our History
Methodists have had a presence on Cape Island since 1810. At that time they met in private homes because there were no churches on the island. Circuit riders traveled throughout Cape May, Cumberland, and Salem Counties preaching the gospel with a Methodist flair.
The first Methodist church was erected in 1843 on Franklin Street where the firehouse stands today at a cost of $1,030. Methodism flourished and the congregation quickly outgrew the building.
In 1854, the Methodists purchased the building on Washington Street (where we worship today) from the Presbyterians who built it for summer visitors. It was known as "The Visitor's Church." It is still known as "The Visitor's Church" today.
In 2003, the Franklin Street United Methodist Church (African American) merged with the First United Methodist Church of Cape May which became Cape May United Methodist Church.
During our March 28, 2022 meeting of our Administrative Council, it was decided that October 15, 1842, should be used as the official anniversary date of Cape May UMC.
God has been so good to our church and it is our desire to keep its history alive so future generations can enjoy our rich history for years to come.
Our History
Methodists have had a presence on Cape Island since 1810. At that time they met in private homes because there were no churches on the island. Circuit riders traveled throughout Cape May, Cumberland, and Salem Counties preaching the gospel with a Methodist flair.
The first Methodist church was erected in 1843 on Franklin Street where the firehouse stands today at a cost of $1,030. Methodism flourished and the congregation quickly outgrew the building.
In 1854, the Methodists purchased the building on Washington Street (where we worship today) from the Presbyterians who built it for summer visitors. It was known as "The Visitor's Church." It is still known as "The Visitor's Church" today.
In 2003, the Franklin Street United Methodist Church (African American) merged with the First United Methodist Church of Cape May which became Cape May United Methodist Church.
During our March 28, 2022 meeting of our Administrative Council, it was decided that October 15, 1842, should be used as the official anniversary date of Cape May UMC.
God has been so good to our church and it is our desire to keep its history alive so future generations can enjoy our rich history for years to come.
Our Vision Statement
Welcome: We are an inclusive congregation, eager to add to our diversity.
- Love: We strive to love as Jesus loved. We welcome you and will care for you through prayer and friendship.
- Serve: We reach out to serve our community with love and acceptance, through the gifts and graces we have been given.
- Holy Communion is celebrated on the 1st Sunday of every month.
CHURCH SERVICES: Traditional Sunday Worship is at 10:30 am in the sanctuary (holy communion celebrated 1st Sunday of the month); Communion at the Cove (8 am, June thru Labor Day at the Cove Beach pavilion), Remembrance Service (December service of peaceful, meditative music and reflection); Christmas Eve Service (service of candles, carols, and communion). Contact the office or visit our website for more information.
YOUNG FOLLOWERS: Children's program ages 4-12 meets every Thursday (Sept-June), 5:30-7 pm in our fellowship hall. God's open table to children with dinner, lessons, music, and recreation provided free of charge!
METHODIST MEN: The men host delicious dinners in our fellowship hall from January through May and September through November. Check the website or FB for dates and information! The men also host a breakfast on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 8 am in Lyle Hall providing an opportunity to share a meal and discuss local, regional, national, and international missions.
METHODIST WOMEN: The women's "Think Tank" is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 1 pm. It is a brainstorming and planning session of ways to help women grow in their faith and ministry to others. We encourage all women to attend.
CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS: We are blessed to have a talented staff who work with our children and young adults. Programs include the Young Followers (ages 4-12), Mountain Movers (ages 13 & up), Children's Choir, and summer Vacation Bible School (a week-long program in August).
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL Every Sunday at 9:00 am in the Children's Chapel (summer schedule differs).
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